Your guide to using the student association for support, funding, events, work experience and leadership—step by step
Canada • Student Association • Undergraduate-focused (many services also open to grads)
The Students’ Union (SU) is the independent, student-run association representing undergraduates at the University of Calgary. It advocates for student interests and operates services, clubs, spaces, events and funding that can save you money, expand your network and build real-world experience. This practical guide shows what the SU does, how to access it, and the quickest ways to get involved.
Overview: what a Students’ Union is—and why it matters
A Students’ Union is a democratic, student-run organization that represents undergraduates to the university and external partners. It funds and coordinates services (from health & wellness initiatives to student support), clubs and societies, events and orientation, and student-led spaces. The University of Calgary SU also runs elected bodies that set direction and budgets, appoint committees, and hold administrations accountable. Specific program names and eligibility vary year to year—always check the official SU pages for current details.
- Representation: elected executives and councilors advocate on tuition, quality of teaching, campus services and student rights.
- Community: hundreds of clubs and faculty associations connect you to peers, mentors and opportunities.
- Support: services for wellness, academics, financial literacy, legal information and basic needs.
- Experience: paid roles, volunteering and governance leadership that strengthen your resume.
Membership & governance
Undergraduates are typically members through student fees. The SU is governed by a student council (representatives by faculty or constituency) and a small elected executive team. Committees (e.g., finance, clubs, policy, events) bring students into decision-making. Meeting minutes and budgets are usually published for transparency.
How representation works
- Elections: annual voting for executives and councilors; by-elections fill vacancies.
- Committees: students apply to sit on advisory or working groups that shape programs.
- Consultations: surveys, town halls and policy feedback sessions on big changes.
What you can influence
- Funding decisions for clubs and student-led events.
- Priorities in advocacy (e.g., affordability, mental health, academic support).
- Service improvements (hours, eligibility, new initiatives).
Core services (what to expect)
Health & Wellness
Peer support Wellbeing Events
Peer-led listening, stress-management workshops, health awareness campaigns, and navigation to campus or community resources.
Academic & Legal Info
Academic rights Policy Referrals
Guides on academic appeals and policies; basic legal information and referrals to appropriate professionals when needed.
Affordability & Basics
Food security Textbook swap Discounts
Support for basic needs (e.g., food resources, bursary info), second-hand materials, and student discounts.
Tip: Save the service emails and booking links to your phone so you can access help quickly during peak weeks.
Clubs & communities
Clubs are the fastest way to find friends and leadership opportunities. You’ll find academic societies, cultural & international groups, hobby & sport clubs, and service organizations. Most clubs recruit at the start of each term, but you can join year-round.
Join in 10 minutes
- Browse the SU’s clubs directory; shortlist 5–8 groups.
- Follow their social channels; note meeting times and application forms.
- Attend one trial event and introduce yourself to an officer.
Start a club (basics)
- Define your purpose and at least a handful of founding members.
- Draft a constitution (sample templates are usually provided).
- Apply for SU recognition, training, and access to funding/rooms.
Funding & awards
The SU typically allocates project/event grants for clubs, leadership or service awards, and small-scale student support funds. Criteria, amounts and deadlines change—confirm on the current SU page before you apply.
| Type | What it’s for | What reviewers look for |
|---|---|---|
| Club/Event Grants | Room rentals, materials, speaker costs, promotion | Clear outcomes, budget, safety plan, inclusive access |
| Leadership/Service Awards | Student leadership, volunteer impact | Documented results, references, sustained involvement |
| Student Support Funds | Short-term needs or emergencies | Eligibility, proof of need, confidentiality and timely follow-up |
Reminder: Always read the latest eligibility rules, amounts and timelines on the official SU site; policies and budgets may change annually.
Jobs, volunteers & leadership
Paid roles
Student staff Events Operations
Part-time positions in operations, events and front-line services develop customer service, coordination and teamwork.
Volunteering
Orientation Peer support Campaigns
Short bursts or ongoing roles that build networks and references. Track your hours and achievements.
Governance
Council Committees Elections
Represent your faculty or community; learn budgeting, policy, and advocacy with real responsibility.
Spaces & facilities
Student-managed spaces include lounges, club storage/lockers, bookable rooms and event venues. Many are accessible during extended hours in term. Respect booking policies and cleanliness—shared spaces rely on student stewardship.
Events & orientation
The SU runs an annual cycle of welcome fairs, club expos, workshops, social events and academic-skills sessions. These are ideal for meeting people, discovering services and finding leadership roles early in the year.
Advocacy & your voice
The SU represents students on affordability, quality of instruction, academic rights and campus services. You can shape priorities by participating in surveys, town halls and committees—and by voting in SU elections.
- Read the policy platform and share feedback on what matters to you.
- Attend open meetings or watch posted recordings/minutes.
- Use formal channels for compliments/complaints and follow-up.
How to use the SU: quick checklists
Week-one actions
- Bookmark the SU site; follow three service accounts (wellness, clubs, events).
- Join one club meeting and one SU skills session.
- Save emergency & support contacts to your phone.
Semester plan
- Apply for one committee or volunteer program.
- Attend one town hall or student council meeting.
- Submit one grant or award application (club or personal).
Timeline & seasonal calendar
| When | What happens | Actions for you |
|---|---|---|
| Late Summer / Early Fall | Orientation, club fairs, service launches | Join 2 clubs; attend a grant info session; explore part-time roles. |
| Mid-Fall | Committee recruitment, awards open | Apply for one committee; collect references for awards. |
| Winter Term | Projects, conferences, leadership training | Pitch an event; apply for travel/project funding if available. |
| Spring | SU elections, transitions | Vote; consider running or applying for a coordinator role. |
International students
The SU provides community and practical help (clubs, mentorship, basic needs, academic rights information). For immigration or status advice, always contact the university’s international office or licensed advisors; the SU can often point you to the right place and amplify student concerns.
FAQs
Do I have to sign up to be a member?
Undergraduates are typically members through student fees—no separate sign-up is required.
How do I find clubs?
Use the SU’s clubs directory and campus fairs; most groups post on social media with meeting times and application forms.
Can I get financial help?
Some funding exists for clubs and student projects. Eligibility, amounts and deadlines vary—always check the current SU page.
Who do I contact for academic issues?
The SU provides information on academic rights and appeal processes and can point you to official university units.
• This guide summarizes typical Students’ Union functions. Program names, eligibility, and funding change—always verify on the official SU website.